FC Barcelona, Manchester City Set Their Sights On Dortmund Star

FC Barcelona and Manchester City are reportedly interested in Julian Weigl, and both clubs are likely to compete for the midfielder’s signature next summer according to a report from Spanish newspaper AS.

The 21-year-old defensive midfielder has been linked with a move away from Signal Iduna Park for quite some time now, and some of the biggest clubs in the world have enquired about him. But Barcelona and City appear to be leading the chase according to recent reports.

Los Blaugranas see Weigl as the perfect long-term replacement for Sergio Busquets, while The Citizens want him as the more defensive midfielder on the squad, a role that is currently occupied by Fernandinho or Fabian Delph. Weigl would represent an upgrade over both players.

Signing him is not going to be easy, however. Weigl recently signed a contract extension until 2021, however, as Dortmund are well aware of the interest several top clubs have regarding the defensive midfielder.

Considering he became a regular starter for both the club and the national team as soon as he left his injury woes behind him, all signs indicate he will play a big role for Germany ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. That will certainly drive his price up even more.

Weigl is a product of 1860 Munchen’s youth system, and signed with Dortmund’s senior team ahead of the 2015-16 season. He has made 99 appearances for the club across all competitions while winning five caps for Die Mannschaft as well.